INEC Extends Continuous Voter Registration by Two Weeks, Introduces Online Self-Service Registration for First-Time Voters
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a two-week extension of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, giving more eligible Nigerians the opportunity to register ahead of future elections.
The announcement was made in a press release dated July 3, 2026, following a review of the nationwide registration exercise and consultations with INEC’s state offices, political parties, civil society organisations, and other key stakeholders.
According to the Commission, the nationwide CVR exercise, which commenced on August 18, 2025, was initially scheduled to end on July 10, 2026.
However, to ensure that more eligible citizens are captured in the National Register of Voters, the registration period has now been extended until Friday, July 24, 2026.
INEC explained that the extension reflects its commitment to providing every eligible Nigerian with a fair opportunity to register and participate in the country’s democratic process.
In a major technological upgrade, the electoral body also announced the introduction of an online self-service voter registration platform specifically designed for first-time voters.
The new digital registration option will become available from Wednesday, July 8, 2026, through INEC’s dedicated Continuous Voter Registration portal. The platform is expected to simplify the registration process by allowing eligible Nigerians to begin and complete their voter registration, including biometric capture, using their personal devices without visiting an INEC office.
The Commission stated that the system has been equipped with advanced identity verification, biometric validation, and backend integrity checks to ensure the credibility, security, and accuracy of the National Register of Voters.
INEC urged all Nigerians who are qualified to vote but have not yet registered to take advantage of the extended registration window and the newly introduced online registration option.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a credible, inclusive, and accessible voter registration process while leveraging technology to improve citizens’ experience and strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system.
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The statement was signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, on July 3, 2026.
